Ferguson departs to join league rivals Marine AFC

Wing back Joe Ferguson has moved from Matlock Town to join NPL Premier Division rivals Marine.

The transfer was confirmed today (Friday) by both clubs.

The 19 year old was released by Blackburn Rovers during the summer after being at Ewood Park since the age of eleven. He came to Matlock but had an injury hit pre season. Last season he spent a spell on loan at Witton Albion.

“Joe’s been offered a more lucrative deal at Marine which obviously gives him more financial security” said Matlock boss Paul Phillips.

“We wanted to keep the lad but there’s a budget we need to stay within. He’s a good player and he leaves with our best wishes for the future.”

Ferguson could feature for the Merseysiders in their home meeting with South Shields tomorrow,

Meanwhile Matlock are still awaiting international clearance from the Irish FA to be any nearer to being able to select Chesterfield pair Kallan Murphy and Leigh Whelan.

“Until all that’s sorted at the Irish end and confirmed by the English FA we’re in limbo, they can’t play for us which is extremely frustrating, not only for me and the club but for the players themselves” Phillips added.

The Gladiators make the long trip to Morpeth Town tomorrow hoping to bounce back from their single goal defeat at Radcliffe in midweek.

Ian Richardson